Approximately 75% of U.S. children are involved in a preschool program. Choosing the right program for your child can be a challenge. You’ll typically have to decide between an academic vs play-based school. How do you figure out which one to choose? Here’s what you need to know about academic preschool programs.
What To Expect
An academic preschool curriculum has a structured routine led and managed by a teacher. The teachers plan all the academic preschool activities geared toward learning. Children in these preschools spend the day sitting down and learning about letters, shapes, colors, and numbers. They also learn how to write and participate in art projects. The goal of academic preschool programs is to prepare children for kindergarten.
Benefits Of Academic Preschool
There are numerous benefits of enrolling your child in preschool. Children have the opportunity to get used to the structured setting of school and learn new things. They also learn important social and emotional skills such as cooperation, respect for others, teamwork, sharing, and problem-solving. They learn how to interact with others and make friends. They also can learn a variety of academic skills at their own pace.
Preschools help children build self-confidence and learn how to become independent. They will learn how to make choices and be responsible for their decisions. Children will also develop fine motor skills as they draw and fine-tune their balance on the playground.
What To Look For In A Preschool
When trying to find a preschool, take your time and do some extensive research. Parents can ask questions about how teachers assess progress, school staff turnover rates, and the educational backgrounds of the teachers. Look online for reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations.
Go to one of the preschools you may be considering with your child and take a tour. Pay attention to how teachers interact with students and how conflicts are resolved. Do the children seem happy and having fun? If so, chances are your child will have a pleasant experience as well.
Academic preschool programs can give your child a wonderful head start on their education. The structured environment can give them a safe and structured environment in which to learn and grow. It can take some time to find the right one, but it’s worth it. Your child will benefit from the building blocks of a strong foundation that will last far into their academic future.